“I believe there is,” said the Major frankly; and then they went chatting on, descending toward the track by the river, with the view increasing in beauty as they passed down toward the vale.
“I believe you are right,” said Reed suddenly. “I have been working rather too closely. This walk does one good. The air is invigorating, like champagne, and one’s spirits rise.”
“Yes, it is not good to give all one’s thoughts to making money. What do you say to having a try for the trout this evening?”
“No,” said Clive thoughtfully; “another time. I must, after all, be back this evening.”
“Mr Reed!”
“Yes; excuse me, I must plead business. Let me come for an hour or two’s chat in the garden, a cup of tea, and then let me return.”
“Of course, if you really wish it.”
“I do, this time, sir. We can easily finish the little bit of business first.”
“My dear Mr Reed, I wish to treat you as a welcome guest,” said the Major; and they went on till he struck out away from the path.
“A short cut,” he said, with a nod and a smile; and five minutes later he pointed, smiling, to a figure standing by one of the high masses of grit. “Expected, you see,” he said.